The Dirac equation successfully merges quantum mechanics with special relativity. It predicts some peculiar effects such as 'Zitterbewegung', an unexpected quivering motion of a free relativistic quantum particle. This and other predicted phenomena are key fundamental examples for understanding relativistic quantum effects, but are difficult to observe in real particles. Here, using a single trapped ion set to behave as a free relativistic quantum particle, a quantum simulation of the one-dimensional Dirac equation is demonstrated.
- R. Gerritsma
- G. Kirchmair
- C. F. Roos